Carolina Herrera always features classic, ladylike glamour, and her Spring/Summer 2013 collection was no exception.

The colors were incredible, beginning with the palest of pastels – sky blue, seafoam green, a universally flattering yellow hue, barely-there pink – and then came the brights – tomato red, citrus and pumpkin oranges, a brilliant, lemon yellow. But, even those bold colors read yet romantic, as only a designer like Carolina Herrera could render them, set as they were upon soft, flowing silhouettes, with remarkable movement and lightness. And, though the apparel ranged so in color, the collection was still cohesive, with details from each passing look effortlessly reworked into the one following.

There were evening gowns with floor-sweeping trains, tea gowns that billowed beautifully – dresses, really, for any occasion – all of which were so impossibly gorgeous. A one-shouldered red gown included the most exquisite, sheer paneling layered over the skirt. The closing look, a fluid white dress with scroll and geometric beading at neck, sleeve, and hem, was a crowd favorite.

The separates were likewise elegant: silk button-up blouses, some sheer, some printed, and many with bishop sleeves; classic, chic, and smartly-tailored jackets; and shorts, pleated to resemble miniskirts, appropriate for night in addition to day. A standout, floor-length and abstract-printed full skirt, complete with orange paneling above the pockets, was balanced by a simple, short-sleeved, yellow knit top. Slate shorts were paired with a seafoam button-up with breathtaking jewel-encrusted collar and matching bejeweled belt. A stunning white shorts suit was treated with gold lace embroidery down its center.

And, the accessories styling was particularly impeccable. A glittering red brooch, pinned carefully to the center of a pointed collar, was echoed by a thin, red waist belt. A blouse with contrast black placket, collar, and cuffs matched an ornate, scroll-embellished black patent belt. A printed dress, with fuchsia ever so subtly incorporated, included a seafoam belt with fuchsia keeper and a coordinating clutch. Later, that same folded clutch, now in taupe with yellow inset and tassel, served to mimic the neon piping of a vintage-inspired dress. Through all, color-blocked, thick-heeled sandals helped to add weight to the fluttering fabrics of chiffon and georgette silks, and airy tulle.

Always, Carolina Herrera designs with timelessness in mind. And so, this is a collection not just to be worn for Spring/Summer 2013, but, indeed, clothing to be cherished forever.-